Thailand flights face delays amid severe monsoon weather

Thailand is currently grappling with severe weather conditions, including heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which is affecting aviation visibility and causing flooding in many areas.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) reported that Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Ltd. (AEROTHAI) is prepared to handle these challenges by implementing measures to ensure flight safety and efficiency.

The Deputy Minister of Transport, Monporn Charoensri, stated that AEROTHAI has adopted measures following the guidelines of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to enhance the safety and efficiency of air traffic management amidst these adverse weather conditions.

The safety policies set by the Ministry of Transport are aimed at ensuring the utmost safety for passengers and aircraft. Furthermore, executives and employees have been dispatched to distribute relief packages to those affected by the floods.

Napasin Jakpitak, the Chief Executive Officer of AEROTHAI, elaborated that the company closely coordinates and monitors meteorological data for aviation, including both forecasted and real-time weather conditions. This information is crucial for planning air traffic management.

AEROTHAI has established procedures for air traffic services, such as rerouting aircraft to avoid bad weather, holding patterns until conditions improve, or redirecting flights to alternate airports. These strategies aim to maintain air traffic flexibility and ensure the highest level of flight safety.

“We have issued warnings to all inbound flights to prepare additional fuel reserves to accommodate potential delays.”

The organisation has instructed all relevant units to be vigilant in provinces at risk and to provide assistance in case of short-term road disruptions due to flooding. Continuous readiness reports are required to elevate the level of surveillance at all times.

Passengers travelling during the monsoon season may experience flight delays during thunderstorms or severe weather near airports. Officials urge the public to stay updated with announcements from the Meteorological Department of Thailand and information from airlines and airports. In case of schedule adjustments or flight cancellations, passengers are advised to allow extra travel time to reach their destinations on schedule.

In addition to these measures, AEROTHAI has emphasised the importance of maintaining communication with airlines and passengers to ensure everyone is well-informed about any changes in flight schedules, reported KhaoSod.